Compare Internet Service Providers

Want the Best ISP? Compare Internet Service Providers

It's easy to compare Internet Service Providers (ISPs) if you know what kinds of questions to ask. A simple comparison table scribbled on a piece of paper will suffice. If you're a techoholic and you want to compare Internet Service Providers, you could even create your own comparison table in Microsoft Excel or some other spreadsheet program.

Before you begin to compare Internet Service Providers, clarify in your own mind what you are looking for from an ISP. Answer these questions (write them down because they are questions an ISP tech will probably ask when you probe for information about services offered):

1. What will you use the Internet for most? Business? Telecommuting? Casual web surfing? E-mail? Research?

2. How important is Internet speed to you when you compare Internet Service Providers? Does your income (or sanity) depend on a fast connection?

3. Where do you live? Is cable or DSL already available in your area?

4. What kind of computer do you have? What kind of modem will you use?

5. Will you be using the service on more than one computer?

6. Will you conduct business and financial transactions online? What level of security are you looking for?

7. Do you require space for a web page? How much traffic do you expect on your web page and how much space will you need?

8. Do you need someone to install equipment inside your home? How much technical support will you need?

9. Do you plan to travel abroad and will you need International ISP services?

10. How much are you willing to pay?

Once you have answered these questions and any others that concern you on paper, draw a table to easily compare Internet Service Providers (or create one on your computer). Remember, the whole idea here is to compare Internet Service Providers so you will want to find 5 to 10 different ISPs that interest you. Write their names down on the first column.

In the following columns write things that are important to you and will help you to adequately compare Internet Service Providers. One of those columns will obviously be labeled cost but cost is not the only consideration. When you compare Internet Service Providers, you need to compare things like connection speed, security, technical support, and time in business. As you review the websites of or talk to the salespeople representing different ISPs, rate the company on a scale of 1 to 10 and write the number you choose in the appropriate column. When you are finished researching, add the numbers up and see which Internet Service Provider rates the highest!